Tour de Cashiers bike ride off and pedaling

Riders are gearing up for this year’s Tour de Cashiers coming on Saturday, May 4. The route will feature stunning spring scenery and challenging ascents.

The rides will consist of three distances: 100-mile, 50-mile, 25-mile routes. Although varying in difficulty, all three provide a challenge for cyclists wanting to test their conditioning. More than 300 riders from across the southeastern United States are expected to participate.

This year’s Tour will be starting on and returning to Frank Allen Road near the Cashiers Crossroads at U.S. 64 and N.C. 107. Proceeds will support Cashiers-area community development.

Participants will receive a commemorative T-shirt and a post-ride meal. Massage services and shower facilities also will be available. Individual and corporate sponsors are also needed for the event. The ride will supported by about 200 community volunteers, including help from regional fire departments, rescue squads and other law enforcement agencies. Those interested in volunteering can help with registration, SAG wagons, rest stations, course preparation, entertainment and other support activities.